Heath Ledger | 1979-2008

Heath Ledger | 1979-2008

Carlo Allegri / Getty Images

Ledger's death shocked not only Hollywood, but a nation who may not have followed the 28-year-old actor's career much before the breakout hit "Brokeback Mountain." His turn as the Joker in "The Dark Knight" was awe-inspiring and bittersweet for those closest to him as the performance received numerous accolades including an Oscar.

Ledger's death shocked not only Hollywood, but a nation who may not have followed the 28-year-old actor's career much before the breakout hit "Brokeback Mountain." His turn as the Joker in "The Dark Knight" was awe-inspiring and bittersweet for those closest to him as the performance received numerous accolades including an Oscar. (Carlo Allegri / Getty Images)

Ledger's death shocked not only Hollywood, but a nation who may not have followed the 28-year-old actor's career much before the breakout hit "Brokeback Mountain." His turn as the Joker in "The Dark Knight" was awe-inspiring and bittersweet for those closest to him as the performance received numerous accolades including an Oscar.